Declan Coady, the youngest of six US soldiers killed in an Iranian drone strike in Kuwait, made a phone call to his brother just hours before his death. The 20-year-old soldier reached out to his brother, who is stationed in Italy, shortly before the attack on a command center on Sunday, October 1, 2023. His father, Andrew Coady, shared this information during an interview with CBS News.
According to Andrew, “Based off timing, and what we know so far, it was shortly after that phone call that this happened, and his operation center got hit.” Coady was only two months away from celebrating his 21st birthday and had been in regular contact with his family, often reassuring them with updates. “He was still thinking about us,” Andrew recalled, emphasizing that Declan consistently assured them he was safe.
Declan’s sister, Keira, expressed concern when communication suddenly ceased. “After trying to check in, we heard nothing,” she told ABC News. Despite the ongoing Iranian retaliatory attacks related to “Operation Epic Fury,” Declan had been actively messaging his family. Keira and her family held on to hope until they received the devastating news.
Andrew recounted the moment the family learned of Declan’s fate. They were preparing for bed when the doorbell rang. “The rest of that night will forever be one of the worst nights of our lives,” Keira said, acknowledging the painful realization that accompanied the visit.
Declan Coady had trained as an information technology specialist with the Army Reserves and was set to receive a promotion to sergeant, which has now been awarded posthumously. “He was very good at what he did,” Andrew remarked, paying tribute to his son’s dedication and skill.
The Pentagon has confirmed the identities of five other servicemembers who also lost their lives in the attack: Maj. Jeffrey O’Brien, 45; Sgt. 1st Class Nicole Amor, 39; Capt. Cody Khork, 35; and Sgt. 1st Class Noah Tietjens, 42. Chief Warrant Officer Three Robert M. Marzan, 54, from Sacramento, California, is also believed to have died in the strike.
The fallen soldiers were part of the 103rd Sustainment Command, which is responsible for providing essential supplies such as food, fuel, and ammunition to military operations.
In response to the attack, President Trump acknowledged that the United States “expects casualties” during military operations. He affirmed the ongoing commitment to the mission, stating, “But in the end, it’s going to be a great deal for the world.” Trump is scheduled to visit Dover Air Force Base for the dignified transfer of the servicemembers who perished in this tragic incident.
The Coady family is now left to mourn the loss of a young man who consistently reached out to reassure them, even in the face of danger. As they navigate this painful time, their memories of Declan continue to resonate, highlighting the human cost of conflict.
